2011 Bruichladdich Islay Barley Single Malt Whisky, 50% ABV (70CL)

Part of Bruichladdich's mission to showcase the "terrior" of whisky comes the 2011 vintage of Islay Barley single malt whisky, produced exclusively from barley grown on six western and central Islay farms. As the barley takes on the influence of the soil and the particular weather conditions year to year, so the whisky produced from it changes with every vintage. The 2011 release is remarkably pure: it's all about fruit and floral character. From the outset there is the trademark Bruichladdich notes of fresh pear and crisp apple, combining with grapefruit and orange zest, barley sugar and caramel wafers. Always there is a gentle marine tang. Finishing with dried apricot, sea air and lots of cereal notes, this is an engrossing dram that is more than anything a pleasure to drink.